If you are planning to study in the UK, it is important to make sure that you are prepared for what is to come. Kampus Group has brought to you 10 important things Indian and asian students should know when planning to study abroad.
Popular Study destinations for Indians students include:
- The U.S.A
- The U.K.
- Australia
- Germany
- Canada
For the majority of Indian, Bangladeshi, Pakistani, Nepalis coming to study in Australia, UK or the U.S. this can be a little daunting at first. There are several basic things you are supposed to know beforehand that will transform your student journey into a great experience.
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1. You should do your research
A basic step before moving to a different country is to look online for information and resources.
If you know someone who has studied at the same place where you are going, that’s also another unbiased way to get some information.
You can contact university personnel staff for information regarding your stay and study pattern.
It is always better to be well informed about the weather type of the country as it will help you in packing and preparing the right inventory.
You should have information about the currency exchange rate and carry enough money with you until you find an ATM or open a bank account in the UK. You can also carry international debit cards with you, which you can use anywhere in the world and these cards are easily available at any national bank in India.
2. Bag-packing
Ensure that you are carrying all the relevant documents and visas to allow you to study in the country you have decided to go with.
Enough prescription drugs for the duration of your stay.
Electric adapters are also important because the shape of the electrical plug differs between different continents. It is one of the essential things to be carried along with you.
Laptop and mobile chargers.
Winter in some countries like the UK is totally different from what we experience in India so pack lots of warm and waterproof outfits for the autumn/winter season. Also, carry sweaters, hoodies, jeans, warm nightwear, shoes, coat and jacket.
A travel book is also helpful for the country you are studying in uk.
3. Prepare for living in a foreign country
From a cultural perspective, Australia, Europe or America are diverse and differ culturally from India. Although you may be worried about knowing the language and being criticised by locals in the area, the reality is that people appreciate your efforts in adapting to their culture. Knowing the language will benefit you a lot while you are shopping and travelling, as English is not necessarily spoken in every country.
It is also good to have some knowledge of the history and political background of the country you are visiting so that you can be more familiar with the people there.
4. Student accommodation
You can contact your university for the accommodation facilities and they will help you and guide you on this.
You can also register yourself on www.hostelworld.com where you can get an idea about accommodation in a variety of countries on a cheaper basis.
You can also register yourself on www.isic.org to get an international student identity card. This will allow you to get discounts on accommodation charges at many places.
5. On arrival
The first thing you are supposed to do is register yourself with the internal affairs ministry within 24 to 48 hours. Registration will help you to legalise your stay in the
country and may also help you in getting your temporary residency. However, there are different rules for different countries which you will have to understand more thoroughly when doing your research.
The step to take is to register at the local Indian embassy. They might also help in solving any of the problems you are facing in the country that you’re studying in. In addition, they organise a variety of programmes that is related to Indian culture which can be a source of entertainment for you
6. Bank account
It is recommended to get a bank account in the country you are studying in. This will allow you to pay your monthly bills and keep your money safe. For this, you will need to require a passport, proof of residence, and proof that you are a student as well.
7. Earning while learning
There are some jobs called ‘blue-collar’ jobs which can offer you an opportunity to work part-time so you can earn some extra pocket money for your monthly expenses. For these jobs, as well as for jobs after graduation, you might need a work permit. It is very important to check these details so that you comply with local legislation and work legally.
8. Scholarships for international students
You can speak to your university regarding finances which will be made available for your studies. You can also find some external charities that can offer you financial aid in the form of a scholarship for studying abroad.
Additionally, you can also access the Scholarship Portal to see what scholarships are available for you depending on the country that you’re studying in.
9. International calling
Living far away from your home country and people will want to make some calls back home. In this instance, you may ask whether my current phone will work abroad and the most probable answer is yes. However, you will have to change your sim card and will have to buy a new one to do this. After that, you can activate an international pack for calling back home with some very cheap rates.
Another way to call internationally is through Skype or Viber through your laptop or computer which will enable you to use video chat or audio chat free of cost. You can also use social media like Facebook for a video chat.
10. Travel
The best way to travel locally is using local transport links like buses, trams, and trains. You can get passes for buses and trains which will significantly reduce your expenses. You can also hire a taxi or use Uber but it will be quite expensive especially if it is at a time of surge charge.
So, guys, these are 10 important things Indian students should know when planning to study abroad. At Kampus Group we hope you will enjoy your stay and we are always here to help with any potential worries you may have.
